What does 2 Peter 3:15 mean?

Explanation

2 Peter 3:15 stresses the importance of patience and understanding in regards to the Second Coming of Christ.

This verse suggests that the delay in the return of Jesus, which some may consider as slowness or unfulfillment, should instead be seen as an expression of God's patience and a period of grace allowing more people to attain salvation.

It acknowledges that Christian teachings may contain complexities and encourages believers to accept differences in interpretation.

The mention of our "beloved brother Paul" points to the writings of the Apostle Paul, which can be complex but are written with divine wisdom that contributes to the understanding of salvation.

Historical Context

2 Peter is a general epistle traditionally attributed to the Apostle Peter, written approximately between 65-68 A.D.

Its readers were early Christians who faced skepticism about Christ's return, the Parousia.

It appears to combat false teachers who promoted licentious behavior, implying that the "day of the Lord" was a myth.

The reference to Paul's letters suggests they were already well-known and held with esteem in the early Church.

This context clarifies the epistle's intent to encourage steadfastness and faith while warning against misinterpretation and immorality.

Theological Insights

This verse shows the early church's understanding of forbearance in God's plan and acknowledges the apostolic authority of Paul's teachings. Different theologies probably would dissect this complex relationship between Peter and Paul:

• Catholicism: Emphasizes the unity of the Christian message, viewing both Peter and Paul's writings as harmonious contributions to the same gospel.
• Protestantism: Focuses on the concept of 'Sola Scriptura' (Scripture Alone) and may interpret "wisdom given unto him" as a testament to Paul's inspired writings.
• Eastern Orthodoxy: Sees the verse as a reflection of the collegiality among the apostles and a scriptural basis for the interpretative tradition within the Church.
• Liberal Theology: Might see this verse exemplifying early attempts to integrate varying Christian traditions into a cohesive theology.

Practical Applications

The message in 2 Peter 3:15 can be applied in various aspects of life:

• Patience: Encourage believers to exercise patience in waiting for God's timing.
• Tolerance: Remind Christians to approach theological differences with understanding, recognizing that complex teachings require carefully guided interpretation.
• Spiritual Growth: Use the period of waiting as a time for spiritual growth and outreach to others.

Cross-References

• 2 Peter 3:9 - "The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance."
• Romans 2:4 - "Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?"
• Ephesians 4:2 - "With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love;"
• 1 Timothy 1:16 - "Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might shew forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting."

Language Study

The original Greek language of the New Testament contains key words that hold significant meaning in the verse:

• Longsuffering (μακροθυμία - makrothymia) refers to patience or endurance, especially regarding people.
• Salvation (σωτηρία - soteria) means the deliverance from harm, preservation, and the spiritual state of being saved.
• Wisdom (σοφία - sophia) indicates not just knowledge, but a deeper understanding that is associated with godly discernment.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the broader context of ancient religious thought, the Jewish tradition emphasized the wisdom of God and patience in enduring trials until the coming of the Messiah.

Hellenistic culture praised the virtues of sophia and patience as noble traits.

Early Christian thought unified these concepts with the unique Christian narrative of an awaited second coming of a personal savior, Jesus Christ.

Scientific Perspectives

Science primarily operates independently from theological concepts such as longsuffering and salvation.

However, psychological research supports the conclusion that patience and perseverance are beneficial traits for emotional well-being. Studies on patience have shown it is associated with better mental health, coping strategies, and overall life satisfaction.

Commentaries

• Matthew Henry's Commentary: Suggests that the delay of the judgment is an opportunity for sinners to repent, reflecting God's patience.
• John MacArthur: Notes the unity of Scripture by showing how Peter affirms Paul's writings, encouraging believers to look to them for wisdom.
• The Expositor's Bible Commentary: Explains the complex nature of Paul's writings and Peter's endorsement of them; also implies a level of difficulty that requires careful study.